HR1415 99TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR1415 LRB099 23412 GRL 50877 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to congratulate Pastor Charles M. Brown on the occasion of his third pastoral anniversary on September 18, 2016; and

WHEREAS, On March 3, 2013, Pastor Charles Brown began the journey of developing a church with the need of the people in mind; Mt. Olive Community Church began its first church service on May 5, 2013 at the Southside Mission before acquiring and moving into its present home at 603 West Nebraska Avenue in Peoria; and

WHEREAS, Under Pastor Charles Brown's leadership, Mt. Olive Community Church has served as a beacon of light throughout the heart of Peoria; the church has been dedicated to providing community love, support, and inspiration and has extended itself to various community agencies and focus groups while connecting people with many resources, such as food, clothing, shelter, housing, resources, jobs, and career support; and

WHEREAS, Pastor Charles Brown has worked hand-in-hand with city and county leaders to support efforts in strengthening the residents in the Peoria area; he has served as a community advocate on the front lines of support to stop violence, while creating a safer city for all; he also created and promoted Job Fairs, which began in the fellowship hall of the church but have grown to utilize the Peoria Civic Center and have assisted hundreds of people in obtaining employment; the church also conducts both a Spring Festival and Fall Festival for the purpose of promoting peace, family, and safe neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, On June 11, 2016, Pastor Charles Brown and the Mt. Olive Community Church received a proclamation from the Peoria Mayor Jim Ardis declaring June 11, 2016 as Mt. Olive Community Church Day in honor of Pastor Brown and the church's work in the community; and

WHEREAS, Pastor Charles Brown lives in Peoria with his wife Alice and his four children, Alexandria, Alex, Jennifer, and Jeremiah; and

WHEREAS, Pastor Charles Brown serves as a model of hard work, integrity, and dedication for the people of the State of Illinois; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate Pastor Charles M. Brown on the occasion of his third pastoral anniversary and wish him continued success and happiness in the future; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Pastor Charles Brown as a symbol of our esteem and respect.